東西 | dongxi

As tech-based terminology trickles into mainstream use, certain terms have been misunderstood or misused. Known also as my list of pet peeves, here’s a list of some commonly misused words/terms in tech.

1. Droid: While often incorrectly used to signify the Android operating system that these phones run on, “Droid” technically refers to a series of Verizon smartphones, most often the Motorola Droid series (Motorola Droid, Motorola Droid 2, Motorola Droid X). Other phones, such as the HTC (Droid) Incredible and the HTC (Droid) Eris may use the Droid name as well. However, these only make up a part of the larger library of “Android” phones. One interesting fact, “Droid” is actually trademarked under LucasFilm, licensed under Verizon Wireless.

2. iTouch: While Apple commonly uses “i-” to name several of their portable devices, the iPod Touch has never officially branded as the “iTouch.” Though most will understand that you’re referring to the phone-functionless-sister of the iPhone when saying “iTouch,” you never know if someone might be expecting just a little bit more.

3. Hacker: While not technically misused, mainstream media commonly uses the term to refer to those who engage in illegal or criminal activity through the use of computers (also known as “crackers”). However, “hacker” can also be used (positively) to refer to computer programmers and designers. It can used to designate those who enjoy modifying or creating software and/or hardware. In fact, there is an annual convention held in Las Vegas for hackers of all types. So the next time someone introduces himself (or herself) as a hacker, you may want to hold off calling the F.B.I.

4. Screensaver: Screensavers are programs that are run to avoid burn-in on computer monitors. From flying toasters to bouncing shapes to a maze of pipes, screensavers another item for users to customize. Nowadays, screensavers are somewhat obsolete, at least in its original purpose, as modern day monitors and LCD screen do not suffer from burn-in. The term is often confused with “wallpaper,” which is merely the background image set for the desktop interface. Though you can just as easily set flying toasters as a wallpaper, these two items are different.

5. PC: The term “PC” is often incorrectly used to differentiate between an Apple computer and a Windows (or Linux)-based computer. At times it’s used to refer to desktop computers specifically. PC, however, stands for “personal computer” which encompasses several devices, including desktops, laptops, and tablets. With Apple’s “Get a Mac” campaign, John Hodgman has become the face of PCs.